The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of an alleged gun-running syndicate operating across Bayelsa and Imo states, following an investigation into the recovery of a Beretta pistol in Effurun, Delta State.
The suspects, identified as Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill, and Amadi Felix Chibuike, were apprehended during intelligence-led operations carried out by police operatives in the two states.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, disclosed the development during a press briefing on Monday, describing the arrests as a major breakthrough in the command’s efforts to curb the circulation of illegal firearms.
According to the police, the investigation began after a Beretta pistol was recovered on May 1, 2026, at a park in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
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Police said Emmanuel Chukwuemeka was first arrested in Bayelsa State on May 4 alongside a friend whose mobile phone was allegedly used to facilitate communication during the firearm transaction.
During interrogation, Chukwuemeka reportedly admitted purchasing the weapon from Amadi Princewill for ₦290,000 before reselling it to a man identified only as Desmond, who remains on the run.
Investigators alleged that Desmond later transported the firearm to Effurun, where it became linked to the late Oghenemine Ogidi, who had reportedly been instructed to deliver the weapon to Sapele.
Acting on information obtained during the investigation, operatives tracked down and arrested Princewill in Imo State on May 15.
Police said Princewill subsequently confessed to acquiring the firearm from another suspect, Amadi Felix Chibuike, for ₦200,000.
His statement reportedly led detectives to Chibuike, who was arrested in Owerri on May 16.
The police further alleged that the suspects are members of the Neo Black Movement, also known as the Black Axe confraternity. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network who are still at large, including the fleeing suspect, Desmond.
Speaking during the investigation, Chukwuemeka claimed he had limited knowledge of the circumstances surrounding the incident involving the deceased.
He said he only knew Desmond as a familiar face in their neighbourhood and denied being fully aware of how events unfolded after the firearm changed hands.
The suspect also admitted to being a member of the Neo Black Movement, stating that he joined the group on January 7, 2026.
“I earn a living through my personal business activities and have not engaged in criminal activities since joining the group,” he reportedly told investigators.
The Delta State Police Command said all suspects would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
CP Oyeniyi reiterated the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks involved in the trafficking and circulation of illegal firearms across the state and beyond.
He assured residents that the police would continue intelligence-driven operations aimed at improving security and bringing perpetrators of crime to justice.
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